[Chris Green]

I have tried various paint combinations, over many years, to cope with the ever changing / evolving UK weather. The increasing annual summer heat and periodic deluges of rain expand /contract the laminated structure of our Atalantas. The resulting movement is bad news for paint coatings and through-hull fittings above the waterline and window seals. Trial and error has led me to the following Paint choices:

• Blister / coachroof  and topsides above the strake -Jotun XP 2 Pack;*
• Topsides below the strake – exterior grade traditional oil based paint
• deck and bilges – Exterior grade polyurethane paint;
• Interior cabin roof areas – anti-condensation paint
• Interior cabin side areas – polyurethane or 2 pack
• inside keel boxes epoxy base coating (preferably with a 2 pack overcoating)

*NB: International two “Perfection” is an excellent paint for hulls – I have used previously on a faded gelcoat GRP hull and was very impressed. Other 2 pack paints will probably provide a satisfactory result. Both International Perfection and Jotun XP are designated for extreme marine environments, so other paints should be checked in this regard.

Delamination can occur when expansion/contraction/flexing of the laminated hull /deck causes gaps to open around fittings. Any water ingress into the laminate can leach into the glued veneers; subsequent high ambient temperatures can accelerate the delamination in local areas where water has penetrated as it evaporates and subsequent rain/drying-out will continue the process into the surrounding area if not treated. Delaminated veneer is repairable and many articles and contributions on this (and window seals) are available on this site and in past copies of the Annual Bulletin.

Prevention is obviously better than cure; initial painting and varnishing; annual lay-up maintenance as required will  minimise the need for hull repairs..

 

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